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Pair of wooden exercise clubs, India, 1871-1920

Thought to have evolved from ancient weaponry, these wooden exercise clubs were used in India to improve strength and agility. The heavy clubs were used in swinging gymnastic exercises. They came in different shapes, sizes and weights. British soldiers adopted exercise clubs into their physical training while stationed in India. On their return home, soldiers brought them back to England. Using exercise clubs spread to America in the 1860s, where they became a popular part of physical training.